2021 Toyota Venza vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2021 Toyota Venza, when introduced, was often compared to a Lexus in terms of its design. Critics noted its resemblance to the Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept, especially with its sleek grille and elongated profile, which blurred the lines between the two brands. The Venza was available in three trim levels—LE, XLE, and Limited—and offered a choice of seven paint colours, though not all were available across every trim. Standard features included dual chrome-tipped exhausts, LED lighting, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The base LE model was equipped with a wireless charging pad, dual-zone climate control, and an 8-inch infotainment screen, among other features. The XLE and Limited trims added more luxurious touches, such as a larger infotainment screen and a Star Gaze panoramic roof.

The 2022 Acura MDX, a pioneer in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, was built on a new dedicated platform, offering a longer wheelbase and wider body than its predecessors. The MDX's exterior design was sportier and more assertive, featuring standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels. Inside, the MDX boasted a modernized cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and genuine aluminum. The centre console housed a unique gear selection system, and the 12.3-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed for safety. The MDX's interior was spacious, with comfortable seating in the first two rows and a flexible second row that could slide and recline. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the overall design emphasized comfort and utility.

The 2021 Toyota Venza was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a lithium-ion battery pack, delivering a combined 219 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid system, coupled with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT), provided smooth acceleration, though it was not particularly rapid. The Venza's handling was confident, and its all-wheel-drive system ensured stability. The SUV excelled in fuel efficiency, achieving an estimated 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 6.1 L/100 km combined, outperforming competitors like the Murano and Passport. Toyota offered a 10-year/240,000-kilometre hybrid battery warranty, underscoring its commitment to reliability.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which enhanced cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup in the front, improving sporty handling, while the rear multi-link suspension enhanced ride quality. The MDX's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly improved, contributing to a solid ride feel. The Integrated Dynamics System offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor the SUV's performance to their preferences. During test drives, the MDX impressed with its handling and comfort, standing out among competitors like the Lexus RX L and Volvo XC90.

The 2021 Toyota Venza offered a practical and comfortable interior, with premium appointments in the centre stack and a unique cabin design. The deep centre console featured various controls and storage options, while the padded upholstery added a touch of luxury. The Venza's seating was accommodating, with ample space for front and rear passengers. Although it had less cargo space than the RAV4, the Venza's 816 litres of cargo capacity was sufficient for daily use. The quick-flip releases on the rear seatbacks made arranging the cargo space easy.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility, with comfortable seating for the first two rows and a flexible second row that could slide and recline. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the overall design emphasized comfort and utility. The MDX offered between 461 and 512 litres of luggage space behind the third row, with additional hidden storage underfloor. Folding down the third row expanded the cargo capacity to between 1,107 and 1,367 litres, while folding down the second row opened up a massive 2,021 to 2,690 litres of space. The power tailgate featured convenient functions like "Walk Away Close" and Hands-Free Access, enhancing the MDX's practicality.

The 2021 Toyota Venza featured an 8-inch infotainment system on the LE trim, while the XLE and Limited trims boasted a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen. The Entune infotainment system, though improved, was not the most user-friendly. The Venza included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a six-speaker audio system. The XLE and Limited trims offered a nine-speaker JBL premium audio system. Toyota connected services, such as Safety Connect and Remote Connect, were standard, providing additional convenience and safety features.

The 2022 Acura MDX was packed with advanced technology, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System on higher trims, offering 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard across all trims. Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Qi-compatible wireless charging were also included. The MDX featured a head-up display on the Platinum Elite grade and a WiFi hotspot, with software updates available over the air.

The 2021 Toyota Venza came equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, which included features like pre-collision warning, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with upgrades available on higher trims. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Acura MDX was rated as a "Top Safety Pick +" by the IIHS, with top marks in every category. The MDX featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The front end was redesigned for pedestrian safety, and a low-speed braking control system was included. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features was standard, offering collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, and more.